The Marine Corps Marathon has announced the transfer and deferment policies for the 30th anniversary race. The policies allow registered runners unable to participate in the sold-out October 30 marathon to transfer their bib number to another runner seeking entry or defer their entry for a guaranteed spot in the 2006 event.

"Things happen-injuries, business trips, and unforeseeable conflicts and the deferment and transfer policies allow runners to delay a year or give someone else the chance to run in their place," says Rick Nealis, MCM Race Director. "These policies offer as many runners as possible the opportunity to be a part of the Marine Corps Marathon."

To transfer a bib number, registered runners must complete and mail in the MCM transfer form available at MCM Web site. The form requires the information of the registered runner and the runner receiving the transferred number. MCM will send a transfer application to the new runner, which must be returned with the $20 transfer fee by September 13. The deferment procedure for 2005 allows registered runners to postpone their run and receive a guaranteed spot in the 2006 MCM. The deferment does not transfer the registration fee to 2006. The deferment request form is located at MCM Web site. Runners who defer their 2005 entry will receive a MCM In-Training Shirt in February 2006. The deadline for deferrals is October 4.

The Marine Corps Marathon continues a combined tradition of dedication, sportsmanship and patriotism. Since its inception, over 300,000 civilian and military runners from all walks of life have participated, deservingly earning the event its nickname "The People's Marathon." The 30th Marine Corps Marathon will be held on October 30, 2005.

Visit MCM Web site for more information. For media information, contact Beth Cline, Marine Corps Marathon Public Relations Coordinator at (703) 432-1165, or E-mail.